There’s nothing quite like a comforting casserole to bring everyone together around the dinner table, and this Tasty Tater Tot Casserole is a real crowd-pleaser. I remember the first time I had this dish at a family reunion in the Midwest. My aunt brought out this golden, cheesy casserole, and it was love at first bite. The combination of savory ground beef, crisp vegetables, and crispy tater tots topped with melted cheddar is irresistible.
This recipe has since become a staple in my household, especially on busy weeknights when I need something quick and satisfying. The best part is how versatile it is. Sometimes, I like to switch things up by adding different vegetables like peas and carrots or even mixing in some mushrooms for a heartier flavor. For those who prefer a bit of a kick, a dash of hot sauce in the beef mixture adds a delightful heat that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Whether you’re looking for a dish to feed a hungry family or something easy to bring to a potluck, this Tater Tot Casserole is sure to be a hit. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and offers the perfect balance of textures with its crispy, cheesy topping and savory filling. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a favorite in your home too!
Making Tasty Tater Tot Casserole
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Ingredients
- 1 1/2 to 2 pounds of ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 chopped medium white onion
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 can of corn (14.5 ounces, drained)
- 1 can of green beans (14.5 ounces, drained)
- 32 ounces of frozen tater tots
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Directions
- Place a large pan over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef, adding the salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, which takes about 6-8 minutes. Add the chopped onion and continue cooking until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- In the same pan, melt the butter and stir in the flour until it’s thoroughly combined. Cook for 1-2 minutes before gradually adding the beef broth, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir the mixture continuously until it starts to simmer and thicken. Add the drained corn and green beans, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
- Evenly spread the meat and vegetable mixture in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots over the mixture, then top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, which should take around 25 minutes.
FAQs:
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in the tater tot casserole?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in the tater tot casserole. The cooking time remains the same, but the flavor will be slightly different due to the leaner meat.
What type of cheese works best for topping the tater tot casserole?
Cheddar cheese is recommended for topping the casserole, but you can also use other types like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this tater tot casserole vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein (TVP) or crumbled tofu. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Is it possible to prepare the tater tot casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to drain any canned vegetables thoroughly before adding them.
How should I store leftovers of the tater tot casserole?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Tasty Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 to 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium white onion chopped
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 can 14.5 ounces corn, drained
- 1 can 14.5 ounces green beans, drained
- 32 ounces frozen tater tots
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded, for topping
Instructions
- In a large pan, cook the ground beef on medium-high heat, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Add the chopped onion and cook until it's soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Melt butter in the pan and stir in the flour until well combined. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then slowly add the beef broth, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until the mixture simmers and thickens. Add the corn and green beans, mixing occasionally.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared dish. Layer the frozen tater tots on top, then sprinkle with the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, approximately 25 minutes.
